Effect Of Potential Energy On Roller Coasters
The conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy is what drives the roller coaster, and all of the kinetic energy you need for the ride is there once the coaster goes down the very first hill. Once the coaster gets going, there are different types of wheels that help keep the ride smooth. Roller coasters don’t have engines. But they do have energy. Once all passengers are in the coaster, the carts get released and begin to roll down the first hill. The force of gravity makes them accelerate downwards. As they begin to go downwards, the potential energy turns to kinetic energy.The potential energy is there because of gravity. For example, once the ride gets to the top of a hill… gravity begins to take over and the rest of the ride is an